Does the spot where my philtrum connects to my nose being very raised make me a bad candidate for a lip lift? (Photos)

Question

Looking to get a lip lift, but the spot where my philtrum connects to my nose is very raised, does this make me a bad candidate? Still conflicted on getting lip lift and looking for doctor second opinions. I dislike how long my philtrum is but I am nervous about scarring because the skin at the base of my nose is very raised (see pic 3) and I haven't seen many before and afters that show a similar thing. Not sure if I would be a good or bad candidate for the procedure.

Georgios Orfaniotis MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hi there. This is a fair concern. Prominent philtral columns extending to the nostril sill can be a challenge in terms of scar placement. From your pictures it appears that your philtrum is long and I believe you will benefit from a lip lift. During planning of the incisions it is paramount to follow the indentations along the base of your nose. This of course needs a 3D assessment during an in person consultation. Although very rare, sometimes worth placing the incisions inside the nostril, if that's where the shadows go. Another very important point is to align the columns perfectly during closure as, even minor asymmetries will be evident after surgery.If you dislike the length of your upper lip then you should go for it.
Good luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

just because you have a defined philtrum doesn't mean you cannot do a lip lift. although I would say fillers and daily hydration and plumping with lucy and co and NUDESKIN lip butter woill give a nice result (see link).  But we do it daily. Best, Dr. Emer.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

A lip lift does 4 things: shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, increases the mucosa of the upper lip, increases the incisor show and pulls up the corners.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Farhad Rafizadeh, MD · Answer

Your philtrum does look long and you should benefit from a lip lift. The placement of the scar is absolutely critical for reducing the visibility of the scar. For me, every patient requires a slightly different location of the scar in order to make the scar less visible. In cases where there is a well-defined nostril sill, I would place the scar below the sill in that natural depression. in other cases where there is no sill. I would place the scar in the nostrils to make them the least visible. In your situation, there is no defined sill and the base of your columella is wider. An examination will show me where is the best location of the scar. with proper placement, your scar should be well concealed.

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Photos with upper and lower lips separated would help clarify indications, and your result can be simulated for you in advance to help decide whether or not to proceed with upper lip lift.  Photos of a patient with similar situation are in our LIPS gallery.

Som Kohanzadeh, MD · Answer

You seem like a good candidate, no need to worry about your philtrum doesn't mean you cannot do a lip lift, but do see a board certified plastic surgeon for your lip filler as you will have him look at the area for a better answer in person.

Does the spot where my philtrum connects to my nose being very raised make me a bad candidate for a lip lift? (Photos)

Answers (6)

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